Yarmouth mayor pushing for long-term CAT ferry contract as season begins
As the CAT ferry prepares to begin another season between Yarmouth and Bar Harbor Thursday, Yarmouth’s mayor says securing a long-term contract for the service is becoming increasingly important for business development and economic planning across the region.
Pam Mood says the ferry remains a major economic driver not just for Yarmouth, but for communities across Nova Scotia and even neighbouring provinces.
“It really is economics 101,” Mood said in an interview with our newsroom. “We’re thankful to have them in our restaurants and shopping in the downtown, staying in our accommodations. It just brings the town to life.”
The Bay Ferries-operated vessel transports passengers between Yarmouth and Maine each year from May through October.
However, the current operating agreement expires after this season, with negotiations on a future contract still ongoing.
Mood says businesses continue asking whether a long-term agreement will be reached before moving ahead with new investments.
“You have businesses here that want to start up. They want to invest, but they can’t do that unless there’s a long-term contract,” she said.
“You don’t start something up with every penny you have and then expect something to disappear in a year.”
Mood says a contract in the range of 10 to 15 years would provide the certainty needed for businesses and communities to properly plan for the future.
“There’s no question,” she added when asked whether potential projects are waiting on a long-term decision. “The question keeps coming — is there going to be a long-term contract?”
Last week, Public Works Minister Fred Tilley said the province is actively working on the issue.
“The team is currently working very hard at that,” Tilley said.
“We want to make sure that we get the best solution for Nova Scotians.”
Tilley also acknowledged the province understands the urgency surrounding negotiations and said officials hope to provide updates soon.
The minister indicated there are limited alternative vessel options available if the province were to move away from the current ferry arrangement.
